A War Story

Today is Veteran's Day and I hope everyone (in the States) took a moment to thank a member of our armed forces. As we have seen through the restrictions of both Twitter and Blogger in other countries this year, we have a lot to be thankful for.

Veteran's Day always reminds me of the opportunity I had a few years back. I was a contractor working at Camp Lejuene Marine Corps Base in North Carolina. It just so happens that one week while I was there the 82nd Airborne unit from World War II was having a reunion. I was fortunate enough to run in to these gentlemen at the nearby sports bar and grill. Knowing they served from the banner on the wall I offered to buy them a drink (which turned into many but that's another story) and in return they shared their stories and memories from the war.

Many people would think that these gentlemen in their late 70's early 80's, I believe, would be withdrawn or despondent when talking about such a horrible time in our history but you would be mistaken. Their shoulders squared up, a fire lit in their eyes and proud, passionate words poured from their mouth. If only I could write with the passion and feeling in which they spoke. I asked questions between their stories and they held nothing back which made the experience even more vivid. The atmosphere in the room changed from these men.

They stormed beaches under heavy fire and they were outnumbered by the enemy most of the time but what impressed me the most was their sheer will to survive no matter what. I asked them how they could move through the ocean water under enemy fire. I figured they would be too scared to move at all. Their response was simple, they knew safety was on the beach and not until then did they truly know fear. They refused to focus on anything else...just the beach and the safety it offered. They saw their friends killed in action and they took whatever measure necessary to defend their position but the persevered, got the job done and came home safely. If only I got capture in writing what they experienced in life.

These men of WWII left a lasting impression on me. I owe to them more then the freedom of this country. I owe them for the lesson and example of pride, that will to survive and keep moving forward, to persevere no matter what the odds. To them and the many others I say thank you.